A Story of Love That Grows

At the heart of GROW lies a tender and unexpected story—one that reminds us that love often blossoms in the most surprising places. The story centers on the evolving bond between a prickly aunt and her spirited niece, two people who couldn’t seem more different at first glance.

The aunt is set in her ways, wrapped in her routines, and a little hesitant to let anyone in too close. She’s the type who values order, quiet moments, and having things “just so.” Her niece, on the other hand, bursts onto the scene with boundless energy, curiosity, and a heart that leads the way before her head can catch up.

At first, their worlds clash. What begins as a reluctant relationship—rooted in duty and perhaps a touch of uncertainty—slowly transforms into something far deeper. Through shared experiences, laughter, small moments of grace, and even a few storms, they begin to find a rhythm together.

Their journey is a gentle reminder that family doesn’t always grow where we plan—it grows where it’s needed most. Bonds can bloom in unexpected soil, nurtured not by perfection, but by patience, vulnerability, and time.

As their connection deepens, both aunt and niece discover that love has a way of softening the hardest edges and breathing life into spaces that once felt closed off. In learning to grow together, they find healing, joy, and a sense of belonging that neither saw coming.

As her pumpkin grows, so does her bond with Dinah, and together they learn the real prize is joy, laughter, 

This is the beautiful heartbeat of GROW: a love story—not romantic, but familial—that proves love can take root and flourish in the most unlikely places.

#GrowTheFilm is in theaters October17! Tickets are on sale now. https://growthefilm.com/ Watch this fun fall film with your family - Grow is only in theaters starting October 17! You can download a fun kids activity book here 

#GrowMovieMIN perfectly timed for fall and Halloween season: cozy, funny, and a safe, whimsical alternative to scary movies. 

Links 

Website/Buy Tickets: LINK

Facebook Page: LINK

Instagram Page: Link

Hashtags you can use to find all the information

Facebook: @GrowtheFilm 

Instagram: @growthefilm 

TikTok: @growthefilm 

YouTube: @GrowTheFilm 

Giveaway $10 Amazon giftcard 

Leave me a comment and let me know that you have plans to go see this movie

Disclosure: Many thanks to US Pumpkin Distribution, LLC for providing a sample of the product for this review. Thank you to #MomentumInfluencerNetwork for this opportunity. Opinions are 100% my own.

Christmas At The Cabin- coming soon

🎄 Christmas at the Cabin 🎄

The ultimate feel-good family Christmas movie of the season!

Starring Todd Terry, Marianne Haaland, Corey Cannon, Sharon Oliphant, and Stacey Sheffield, ChristmasatthecabinMN brings together laughter, love, and just the right touch of Christmas chaos. With beautiful scenery, heartfelt storytelling, and a soundtrack filled with both original music and beloved holiday classics, this film is everything you want in a family Christmas tradition.

✨ Coming to theaters this Christmas! ✨
Watch the full trailer and learn more at christmasatthecabinmovie.com

🎬 Share the Teaser Trailer:

• Facebook: facebook.com/ChristmasAtTheCabin

• Instagram: instagram.com/christmasatthecabin_movie

• TikTok: tiktok.com/@christmasatthecabinmovie

• YouTube: youtube.com/@ChristmasAtTheCabin

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🎥 Watch the trailer now:
👉 christmasatthecabinmovie.com

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Follow & tag us:
Instagram: @christmasatthecabin_movie | @realfaithchannel
Facebook: @ChristmasAtTheCabin
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#ChristmasAtTheCabin #FamilyChristmasMovie #FaithFilm #HolidayMovies #FeelGoodFilm #ChristmasMovieMagic #Christmas2025 #RealFaithChannel

Grow- The Film coming soon

Fall plans just got bigger. Pumpkin Season is here and we have a fun family movie coming to theatres on Oct 3.  #GrowTheFilm  Tickets are on sale now.

 https://growthefilm.com/

Last first day

My beautiful girl,

Today is so much more than just the first day of school — it’s the beginning of the final chapter of a dream you’ve been chasing since you were little. Your very last first day. I can still see that little girl, backpack almost bigger than her, lining up at the classroom door with excitement in her eyes. And now, here you are, stepping into your education degree, ready to become the teacher you always said you’d be.

I am so proud of you — not just for the hard work that got you here, but for the heart you carry into everything you do. You have such a gift, a way of making people feel seen and valued, and I know your future students are going to be so lucky to have you.

This year will be full of challenges, late nights, and long days, but also so many beautiful moments. Soak it all in. Celebrate the small wins. Learn from the hard days. And never forget — you were made for this.

Watching you grow into this incredible woman has been one of the greatest blessings of my life. I can’t wait to see the magic you’ll bring into the world, one classroom, one child, one lesson at a time.

I love you more than words will ever be enough. Go shine, baby girl. The world is waiting for you. ❤️

Love,

Mom

Movie Review: Light of the World

✨ Movie Review: Light of the World — A Stunning 2D Animated Journey of Faith

There are some stories that never grow old — and the life of Jesus Christ is one of them. But rarely do we see His story brought to life with such beauty, reverence, and artistry as in Light of the World.

This breathtaking, 2Animated feature tells the story of Jesus through the eyes of one of His closest friends — the Apostle John. From the very first moments of Jesus’ ministry to the heartbreak of the crucifixion and the glory of the resurrection, this movie takes you on a deeply emotional and spiritual journey. Whether you’re familiar with the Bible or hearing the story for the first time, Light of the World is a fresh, heartfelt reminder of how Jesus changed the world forever — and how He still changes lives today.

A Love Letter to 90s Animation

If you grew up during the golden era of hand-drawn animation in the 1990s, this movie will feel like coming home. Every frame is a work of art — detailed, expressive, and filled with color and life. It’s a refreshing reminder that traditional animation, when done with care, has a timeless beauty that no computer-generated image can quite capture.

That’s no surprise, considering the talent behind the film. Director John Schafer, who previously produced the beloved program Superbook, and co-director Tom Bancroft, a Disney veteran known for his work on The Lion King, Mulan, and Beauty and the Beast, have poured their combined expertise into this project. Their passion is evident in every scene.

Faith, Family, and Hope

At its core, Light of the World is more than just a movie — it’s a celebration of faith, family, and the unwavering hope that Jesus brings. Movieguide praised it as “beautifully animated and entertaining … based entirely on the Bible” and highlighted how it emphasizes trusting in God’s plan.

This is a film that welcomes everyone — families, youth groups, and individuals seeking inspiration. Children will be captivated by the animation, while adults will find themselves deeply moved by its emotional depth and spiritual resonance.

You can see the trailer here

Why You Should See It

Movies like this don’t come around often. It’s rare to find a film that is wholesome, visually stunning, and deeply meaningful all at once. Light of the World isn’t just something to watch — it’s an experience to share. It opens doors for meaningful conversations about faith, love, and purpose.

And here’s the best part: by attending during the opening weekend, you’re not just watching a movie — you’re helping to support faith-based animation and storytelling so more films like this can be made.

Release Date and Special Group Pricing

Mark your calendar: #LightoftheWorldMIN opens in theaters nationwide on September 5, 2025, with special early showings running September 4–7. Planning to go with your family, small group, or youth ministry? Groups of 10 or more can purchase tickets for just $7.50 per person — making it affordable to share this powerful experience together as a youth group or a any type of group really 

This is more than a movie — it’s a movement of faith, beauty, and storytelling. Don’t miss the chance to see it on the big screen, and bring along someone who needs to be reminded of the hope and love.  

This is a great interview that my friend Jean did, you can watch it here

I am offering a $10 Amazon gift card.  Tell me do you enjoy Christian movies? 

Disclosure: Many thanks to Salvation Poem for providing a sample of the product for this review. Opinions are 100% my own.  Thanks to my friends at #MomentumInfluencerNetwork for the opportunity.

Summer 2025

This summer has been one for the memory books, filled with moments that I’ll carry with me for a long time. 🌞

It started with an unforgettable trip to Colorado. There’s something about the mountains that just calms the soul — the crisp air, the endless views, and that sense of wonder you get when you’re surrounded by nature’s beauty. It was the perfect reset, a chance to step away from the everyday routine and just be.

Not long after that, I got to celebrate my nephew’s graduation. Watching him walk across that stage was such a proud moment — one of those days where you feel the love and excitement in the air. It’s incredible to see the young man he’s becoming and to think about all the opportunities waiting for him ahead.

Then came one of the most beautiful days of the summer: David and Lina’s wedding. Everything about it was magical — from the heartfelt vows to the laughter shared with friends and family as we celebrated their new journey together. It was one of those days where love just filled the room and reminded me how special it is to witness someone’s happily ever after beginning.

All of this was done while finding ways to honour my sister. I visited her grave, spending quiet moments there reflecting on her life and the memories we shared. I also helped pack away her belongings — a bittersweet task filled with both tears and gratitude, as each item held a piece of her story and a reminder of the love we’ll always carry for her.

On our way home, my husband and I stole a few days just for ourselves — days to reconnect, to laugh, to wander, and to fall in love with each other all over again. We set out on little adventures, chasing sunsets, trying new foods, and discovering hidden gems along the way. Every moment felt like a reminder that no matter where life takes us, the greatest adventure will always be being together.

Another highlight was a visit from Mom, and that time together meant so much. Having her here, sharing quiet mornings over coffee, catching up on life, and just enjoying her company made my summer feel even more complete.

Since June 18, I’ve been on leave from work, which has been a blessing in disguise. The slower pace has given me space to rest, recharge, and really take care of myself — something I didn’t even realize how much I needed. My days have been filled with little routines that bring me peace: quiet mornings, reading, long walks, and plenty of time to reflect. I have since resigned from my job as it just wasn't bringing joy anymore.  

Looking back, this summer was such a beautiful mix of adventure, love, family, and stillness. It reminded me how important it is to celebrate the big milestones but also to embrace the quiet, simple moments that make life meaningful. As we head into a new season, I’m carrying with me so much gratitude — for the memories made, the lessons learned, and the reminder that sometimes slowing down is exactly what our hearts need. ✨

Tips To Taking Care Of Your Health As You Age

 Pexels

Getting older may not always be fun, but it is inevitable. Instead of worrying too much about it, be proactive and put your needs and well-being first. This way, you can set yourself up for a bright and healthy future.

There are many actions you can take that will have a positive impact on how you look and feel. It’s all about paying close attention to your habits and committing to living a healthy lifestyle overall. Here you can review some tips that will help you take good care of yourself as you age.

Get Regular Check-Ups

Preventive care can go a long way in helping you to stay healthy and well. You want to make sure you address any concerns right away and stay on top of seeing your doctors. Get regular check-ups so that you can ask questions you have and come up with suitable treatment plans for anything that does arise related to your health. It’s not just about seeing your primary care doctor, but also getting your eyes and ears checked. Now is a good time to schedule a hearing test to see where you are at and confirm if you’re experiencing any hearing loss. 

Exercise & Move Daily

You should also make a point to move more and get daily exercise as you age. It’s important to maintain bone density and flexibility. Find activities that you enjoy doing and are easy on your body. For example, you can take a yoga class or do some cardio workouts and light weight lifting at the gym. Walking at a steady pace is also very beneficial and can boost your mood. There are many health benefits of regular exercise, and you’ll find that you have more natural energy. Staying active during the daytime will also help you sleep better at night. 

Eat A Well-Balanced Diet

It’s wise to monitor what you are putting in your body for fuel as well. Eat a well-balanced diet so you get all the right nutrients. If you are unable to cook for yourself at home, then you can use a food delivery service that will provide you with healthy prepared meals. Do your best to cut back on or limit processed foods and sugar. It’s also a good idea to drink plenty of water to keep hydrated. Water replenishes your skin and removes toxins from your body. 

Find Ways to Boost Your Mental Health

An important part of your overall well-being as you age is your mental health. Your goal is to keep your mind sharp and mood stable. You may want to begin your day doing a crossword puzzle or word search, which can be fun and mind-stimulating. Find hobbies that are enjoyable or spend more time in nature instead of being connected to technology. It may help to meditate regularly or write in a journal. Keep a gratitude list and review daily what you are most thankful for in your life. Be sure to surround yourself with positive and uplifting people so that you can avoid feeling lonely and isolated. 

Simple Daily Practices to Support Long-Term Hearing Health

 

Hearing loss often starts gradually. You might notice voices sounding unclear or have trouble following conversations in noisy places. These changes may feel small at first, but they can have a lasting impact on your daily life.

Good hearing supports how you work, socialise, and stay safe. It also helps your brain stay active. Research links untreated hearing loss to isolation and cognitive decline. The best way to protect your hearing is to build small habits into your day. These steps don’t require major effort but can make a big difference over time.

Photo by Photo By: Kaboompics.com:

Here are five practical ways to keep your hearing strong.

Limit Exposure to Loud Sounds

Loud noise is one of the biggest causes of hearing loss. The damage builds up over time.

Keep volume low on headphones and speakers. A good rule is the 60/60 rule: 60 percent volume for no more than 60 minutes at a time. Use over-ear headphones rather than earbuds, which sit closer to your ear canal.

At concerts, sports games, or even in loud workplaces, wear hearing protection. Reusable earplugs are more comfortable and more effective than foam ones.

At home, avoid layering noise. If the TV is on, don’t run the blender or vacuum at the same time. Your ears work harder in environments with competing sound.

Give your ears breaks. Step away from noisy spaces, and enjoy quiet time each day.

Make Hearing Part of Your Health Checkups

Many people get regular eye or dental checks but skip hearing tests. Your ears deserve the same attention.

Get your hearing checked at least once a year, especially if you’re over 50 or work in noisy environments. Even younger adults can experience hearing loss from noise, illness, or medication side effects.

Some signs to watch for: turning up the volume more than others prefer, asking people to repeat things often, or struggling to follow conversations with background noise.

If you notice any of these, book a test with an audiologist. Early treatment can reduce the risk of further loss.

In cases where hearing support is needed, consider solutions like hearing aids or assistive listening devices. These tools can improve clarity, especially in group settings or public places.

Keep Your Ears Clean and Healthy

Avoid cleaning your ears with cotton buds. They can push wax deeper and damage the ear canal. Instead, clean the outer ear with a damp cloth.

If you feel blocked or experience discomfort, see a professional. Impacted earwax is common and easy to treat safely.

Let your ears dry after swimming or bathing. Moisture in the ear can lead to infections, which may affect your hearing over time.

Stay aware of your hearing after illness. Conditions like ear infections, flu, or even COVID-19 can cause temporary or permanent changes in hearing. Don’t wait to get checked if something feels different.

Support Hearing With a Healthy Lifestyle

What you eat and how you move can affect your hearing.

Exercise improves circulation, including blood flow to the inner ear. Even walking for 30 minutes a few times a week helps.

A diet rich in vegetables, whole grains, lean protein, and omega-3s supports overall health and may slow age-related hearing decline. Some studies suggest antioxidants like vitamins C and E also play a role.

Keep your blood pressure and blood sugar in check. Conditions like diabetes and hypertension can damage the delicate structures in your ears.

Avoid smoking. It reduces oxygen in the bloodstream and increases the risk of hearing loss.

Taking care of your body helps protect your hearing too.

Pay Attention to Early Changes

Most people delay action because hearing loss feels minor at first. But early changes matter.

Do you often ask others to repeat themselves? Do you feel tired after conversations? These can be early signs that your ears are working harder than they should.

Modern hearing support options are better than ever. Some are invisible or connect to your phone. Others are designed for specific situations, like lectures or group discussions.

If you’re not ready for hearing aids, start with assistive listening devices. These amplify specific sounds and can improve communication without full-time use.

Don’t wait until it affects your confidence or quality of life.

Start Small and Stay Consistent

Hearing health isn’t about making big changes all at once. It’s about building a few smart habits into your routine.

Keep volumes down. Take breaks from noisy environments. Protect your ears when needed. Check your hearing regularly. And stay alert to any signs of change.

The earlier you act, the more options you have. Hearing support isn’t one-size-fits-all. From professional tools to personal devices, help is available.

Make your hearing part of your daily self-care. The steps you take now will pay off for years to come.

Sensory Depreciation: The Life-Changing Practice of Reducing Input

 

In a world that prizes constant stimulation, silence has become a rare luxury. We spend our waking hours bathed in light, surrounded by screens, bombarded by sound. Notifications hum in our pockets. Fluorescents buzz overhead. Even rest has become noisy. But tucked beneath all that input lies an often overlooked truth: less is not just more—it’s necessary.

Via Unsplash

When Stillness Becomes a Survival Skill

Modern living rarely gives our senses a break. And yet, the human nervous system wasn’t built for this volume of signal. The constant ping of stimulation—auditory, visual, even emotional—keeps our brains in a low-grade state of alert. Over time, that adds up. Fatigue. Irritability. Insomnia. Burnout.

Sensory depreciation, at its core, is the intentional reduction of incoming sensory data. It doesn’t mean eliminating sound or light entirely, but choosing quieter, gentler inputs. It means giving the eyes less to track, the ears less to process, and the mind a brief reprieve. In doing so, we allow something remarkable to happen: our body begins to downshift. Our mind regains space to think, or not think at all.

A Designed Pause

If you’ve ever stepped into a minimalist room—a place with subdued tones, softened light, and no television humming in the background—you’ve likely felt your shoulders drop. There’s a reason interior designers talk about visual noise. Color, clutter, and contrast activate us. That’s not always bad, but it’s unsustainable in every room, every day. Consider this an argument for neutral corners. For quiet walls. For places that don’t demand your attention but gently hold it.

And then there’s sound. We don’t just hear with our ears—we process with our whole nervous system. That’s why an overactive audio environment can push some people toward exhaustion. For those dealing with conditions like tinnitus or even subtle auditory sensitivities, reducing background noise can feel like balm. One hearing aid center recently introduced low-stimulation soundscapes for clients as part of their tinnitus relief program—not to add sound, but to guide the brain toward softer perception. The results? Calmer minds. Longer attention spans. A sense of relief not often found in modern acoustics.

The Echo That Lingers

It’s easy to underestimate the residue that overstimulation leaves behind. Long after a chaotic commute or an afternoon under fluorescent glare, the body continues to carry the tension. Shoulders stay high. Breaths remain shallow. The nervous system, trained to anticipate the next alert, doesn’t simply unwind when the noise stops. That’s why intentional sensory reduction isn’t just a passing break—it’s a reset. When we dim the lights, soften the visuals, and mute the background hum, we’re not just creating quiet—we’re restoring balance. These quieter moments act like a buffer, catching the echo before it becomes chronic. And in that stillness, healing has a chance to begin.

The Gift of Less

Reducing sensory input isn’t about withdrawal. It’s about becoming more selective. A walk without headphones. A dinner table without overhead LEDs. A bedroom where no blue light flickers in the corner. These small shifts train the body to enter rest mode more easily. They support deeper sleep, clearer focus, and a richer relationship with one’s own thoughts.

Design, at its best, supports well-being. Sensory depreciation invites us to consider not what we can add to our environment, but what we might quietly remove. The goal isn’t emptiness—it’s intention.

Sometimes, the most powerful design choice isn’t a new feature or color. It’s space. It’s hush. It’s the simple act of turning down the volume, so you can finally hear yourself again.

Burn out-2 months in

Two months ago, I fell apart in my doctor's office and with her encouragement I agreed. 

I made one of the hardest decisions I’ve ever had to make—

I stepped back.

I didn’t step back because I wanted to. I stepped back because I had to.

I had been running on empty for too long, pouring from a cup that had been dry for months. What I thought was just being “tired” or “overwhelmed” turned out to be something deeper—burnout. The kind that doesn’t just affect your work, but your heart, your mind, and your soul.

At first, rest didn’t feel like rest. It felt like guilt. Like failure. Like I was letting everyone down. My days felt strange without a long to-do list and the constant buzz of busyness. I didn’t know who I was without the hustle.

But slowly, something began to shift.

I started noticing the quiet things—the way the morning light poured through my window, the sound of my own breathing when I slowed down, the joy of doing something just because it made me smile. I began to realize that my worth was never meant to be measured by how much I accomplish in a day, or what people thought of me by but by the simple truth that I exist.

Some days are still hard. I’m not “fully recovered,” and I’ve stopped chasing the idea of going back to who I was before. Instead, I’m learning to build a gentler, kinder life—one where rest isn’t a reward I earn, but a rhythm I live by.

If you’re in that place of exhaustion, please hear me:

It’s okay to step away. It’s okay to say “not right now.” It’s okay to choose rest over running yourself into the ground.

You are not behind.

You are not weak.

You are simply human—and you are allowed to take the time you need to come back to yourself.

One day, you’ll feel the sun on your face again and realize that while burnout changed you, it also gave you a chance to rebuild into someone even stronger, softer, and more whole. 💛

everything feels borrowed lately everything felt borrowed lately.

the coffee cups weren’t hers, not really.

the couch had moved from one living room to another so many times it didn’t belong to anyone anymore. the walls were white, like every rental before. clean enough, but not home.

she sat at the kitchen table on a thursday.

a breeze came through the cracked window and ruffled the corner of a flyer about school pictures. beside it—an unpaid bill, a banana too brown to save, and a list she couldn’t remember writing.

her daughter was upstairs, door shut.

hubby was on the couch, half-watching sports, half-scrolling his phone.

the house was quiet in that eerie way it gets when the day’s been too long but still not over.

nothing felt settled.

they’d talked about buying. of course they had.

it comes up every few months, usually when the lease renews or someone on facebook posts a new “just got the keys!” photo.

but between her health flare-ups, his work shifts, and the ever-growing grocery bill…

how do you even begin?

they tried looking at calculators—trying to figure out if renting was really “throwing money away” or if buying would just bury them in surprise bills and stress.

she found one guide that helped break it all down—comparing things like upfront costs, monthly budgeting, and even long-term goals like equity and flexibility [source].

it was honest about how the “right” answer depends on what season of life you’re in.

and honestly? she saw both sides.

renting meant breathing room. buying meant roots.

but what good are roots if you’re too anxious to rest?

she wasn’t afraid of commitment—just exhausted by it.

every decision lately felt like it came with a million tiny strings.

mortgage means savings.

savings means cutting back.

cutting back means less for the kiddo’s birthday, fewer takeout nights when she’s too tired to cook, maybe even skipping their weekend drives. the ones that keep them sane.

and what if they bought and still didn’t feel settled?

she used to dream about paint colors, about having a porch swing, about planting tulips in a yard they actually owned…

but lately?

lately, all she wanted was a week without appointments.

without chasing pills and energy and someone else’s expectations.

renting wasn’t ideal. but it let them breathe.

no roof repairs. no lawn drama. no six-figure what-ifs.

still… she noticed the way her daughter hesitated to put posters on the wall.

like maybe she’d have to take them down soon.

and that hurt more than she could say.

even the joy felt temporary.

borrowed.

like it came with a due date.

people don’t talk about this part.

how a home isn’t just a place to sleep—it’s where your identity sits.

where your memories live.

and when that place doesn’t feel fully yours… neither do you.

but here’s what she held onto:

the way her daughter still crawled into bed some mornings, all elbows and blanket.

the way hubby made grilled cheese just the way she liked it—burnt edges and all.

the smell of cinnamon buns in the oven, even if the oven belonged to someone else.

she started noticing that joy didn’t always have to be earned or owned—it could be borrowed.

some days, just seeing someone else smile... hearing a friend talk about good news... it lifted the edge off her own heavy day.

and that’s a real thing—borrowing joy.

she’d read something once that explained it better than she ever could… how sharing in someone else’s good moment could soften your own hard one [source].

so maybe the couch wasn’t hers.

maybe the house wasn’t either.

but the laughter? the tiny, borrowed bits of peace? the inside jokes that made no sense to anyone else?

those were hers.

and for now… that was enough.

The Testament — A Bold Reimagining of the Book of Acts

If you're looking for a fresh, emotionally gripping, and visually striking take on the early church, The Testament is a must-watch. Now streaming exclusively on Angel.com and the Angel App, this animated series is available to all Angel Guild members — and it's already creating powerful conversations among viewers of faith.

Set in an alternate-modern world, The Testament reimagines the explosive events of the Book of Acts in a way that feels eerily relevant to our time. It’s not just biblical history retold — it’s a revolutionary interpretation that fuses ancient truths with contemporary struggles. From the very first episode, the resurrection sparks a wave of radical hope, igniting a movement that shakes a broken world to its core.

The story follows the early followers of Jesus as they risk everything to preach the good news — not in sandals and robes, but in a gritty, modernized world under the thumb of an oppressive Imperium regime. It's a world that mirrors our own: power-hungry institutions, social unrest, and a desperate need for something real. As the Temple leaders scramble to suppress the truth before the Imperium cracks down, secrets begin to surface, loyalties shift, and the stakes rise higher with every scene.

But this isn’t just about thrilling plot twists. #TestamentMIN goes deep, challenging viewers to ask themselves: What does it truly mean to follow Jesus today? What are we willing to risk? Are we prepared to be bold in our faith even when it costs us everything?

The modern setting is a brilliant choice — it strips away the historical distance that often dulls the impact of Scripture. Instead, it brings the apostles and their struggles into our world, making them people we can relate to. You’ll find yourself connecting to their fear, their doubts, and their fire. And in doing so, you may just find your own faith stirred in new ways.

With this live action series, powerful storytelling, and a message that resonates deeply in today’s world, The Testament is more than entertainment — it’s a spiritual wake-up call.

🔗 Watch now at Angel.com or on the Angel App — available to all Angel Guild members.

Whether you’ve read the Book of Acts a hundred times or never opened a Bible, this series will move you. Don’t miss it.

GIVEAWAY: 
Do you enjoy Christian movies? I will pick a winner for $10 Amazon gift card if you leave me a comment. ❤

Disclosure: Many thanks to Angel  and #MomentumInfluencerNetwork for providing a one month Angel Guild membership for  this review. Opinions are 100% my own.

One year of hell

It’s been one year.

One year since I heard your voice.
One year since I saw your smile.
One year since this world changed forever.

And not a single day has gone by without me thinking of you.

I still can’t fully wrap my head around the fact that you’re gone. Some mornings I wake up and for a split second, I forget — just a moment where the world feels whole again — and then the weight of reality settles in. The silence where your laughter used to be is so loud.

You were more than just my sister — you were my friend, my confidante, my anchor. You knew how to make me laugh when I wanted to cry, how to call me out when I needed truth, and how to love me even when I was hard to love. Your presence was a light — steady, strong, and full of warmth. And losing that light has left a space in my heart that no one else can fill.

But even in the ache of your absence, I carry so much of you with me. I see you in the little things: the way the sun hits the trees, the lyrics of a song we both loved, the scent of something that brings back a memory. I hear your voice in my head when I’m faced with a tough decision — and somehow, even now, I still know what you'd say.

They say grief is just love with nowhere to go. And it’s true — my love for you is as strong as ever, but I can’t hug you, or text you, or hear you laugh. So I write to you instead. I speak to the stars. I cry when I need to, and smile when I remember the beautiful moments we shared. You gave me so many of those, and I hold them close.

I wish we had more time. I wish I could have one more day with you — even just one more conversation. There’s so much I want to tell you. So much I want you to be here for. But more than anything, I want you to know that I miss you deeply. And I love you endlessly.

You are not forgotten. Not today. Not ever.

I carry you with me in everything I do. And I promise to live in a way that honors the love, the joy, and the strength you brought into this world. I’ll laugh louder. Love deeper. And I’ll keep your memory alive in my heart — always.

Until we meet again

"IM FEELING 22"

My Dearest Brooke,

Happy 22nd Birthday, my beautiful girl.

I’ve been thinking about this letter for days now, wondering how to possibly put into words everything I feel for you. The truth is—there aren’t enough words in the world to explain how much I love you, how proud I am of you, or how grateful I feel just to be your mom.

But I’ll try.

From the very first moment I held you in my arms, 22 years ago today, you changed everything. You filled spaces in my heart I didn’t even know existed. You were wide-eyed and curious, strong-willed and full of light — and you still are. You’ve been my sunshine on the darkest days, my laughter in the chaos, my reminder that love—real, deep, soul-shaking love—is what life is all about.

You are my heart walking outside my body. Always have been, always will be. And today, that heart of mine turns 22.

There’s something unforgettable about 22. It’s magical, messy, exciting, a little chaotic — and completely yours to make your own. You’re old enough to know better, young enough to try anyway, and brave enough to keep laughing through it all.

So laugh — laugh when you’re sure, laugh when you’re lost, and especially when you’re full of joy. Laugh through the moments that don’t make sense yet, and celebrate the ones that do. Say yes to adventure. Say no when your peace matters more. Trust your instincts. Guard your heart, but don’t be afraid to open it. Cry when you need to. Forgive yourself when things don’t go as planned. And never forget how worthy you are of love, happiness, and all the good things this life has to offer.

You’ve grown into such a remarkable woman. You are thoughtful, brave, smart, resilient, funny, and so full of love. You carry both strength and softness in you — a rare and beautiful mix. Life has already thrown you a few storms, but you’ve met each one with grace and come through stronger, wiser, and still with that unmistakable spark in your eyes.

That spark… it’s always been there. It’s you.

I know 22 won’t always feel easy. That education degree won't always feel easy. There will be days when you feel on top of the world, and others when you're just trying to keep it together. But I want you to remember this — joy can still be found in the middle of the unknown. You are allowed to not have it all figured out. You are allowed to rest. You are allowed to grow slowly, at your own pace. Let this season stretch you, surprise you, and shape you. Some of your most meaningful memories — and lessons — will come now.

And wherever life takes you next, just know this: I’ll be right here. Cheering you on. Praying for you. Loving you more fiercely than you’ll ever truly understand. Don’t go too far, though 😁

I look at you and see someone who is both fierce and gentle, strong and compassionate, driven and kind. You bring light to every space you enter. You love deeply, think big, and feel everything so vividly — that is your superpower. Don’t ever let this world dim that spark inside you.

And while I may want to hold on a little longer to the little girl you once were, I am so unbelievably proud to stand beside the woman you’ve become. Watching you grow into yourself has been the greatest honor of my life. I will always be here — to lift you up, to remind you who you are, and to love you every step of the way.

So today, celebrate big. Blast that Taylor Swift song "I'm feeling 22". Dance like no one’s watching. Laugh until you cry. Fall in love with the little things. Dream bigger than ever before. Be as bold, brilliant, and beautifully you as ever.

You deserve nothing less than joy that fills you up and love that meets you exactly where you are.

Happy Birthday, sweetheart. You are the greatest gift of my life. I love you more than words — and I always will.

With all my love,
Mom

King of Kings Review

Why King of Kings Is the Perfect Movie to Watch as a Family

If you’re looking for a film that brings the life and teachings of Jesus to life in a way your kids will actually understand and connect with, #thekingofkings is the one. It’s not just another Bible movie — it’s sparking real curiosity in children. After watching, kids are asking thoughtful questions about the gospel and wanting to know more about Jesus. That’s pretty amazing.

This movie makes a great family night option, especially on Sundays. You can watch it together and have some really meaningful conversations afterwards — no boring lectures, just real talk about faith, kindness, and what Jesus taught.

Teachers and Sunday School leaders love it too. It’s a powerful tool for youth groups because it’s engaging, easy to follow, and full of teaching moments.

Families are loving it — parents included. The story is moving, the production is top-notch, and yes, there are big-name actors lending their voices. It’s not one of those cheesy old faith films — it’s beautifully done, with quality that rivals anything in mainstream entertainment.

Tired of having nothing good to watch as a family? You’re not alone. That’s why Angel Studios is such a game-changer. With content approved by Angel Guild members (real people who care about values and quality), they’ve built a library of high-quality, faith-driven entertainment. Nearly everything has a 95% Rotten Tomatoes score or higher — and once you scroll through their selection, you’ll see why.

Support stories that matter. Watch King of Kings — and discover just how powerful faith-based films can really be. 

The animated film The King of Kings is now streaming on Angel.com and the Angel App and available to all Angel Guild members: LINK

GIVEAWAY: If you are planning to watch, comment below and you can win a $10 Amazon giftcard. 

Many thanks to #angelstudios for providing a one month Angel Guild membership for this review. Opinions are 100% my own. Thank you to #MomentumInfluencerNetwork  for the opportunity to take part

11 Months in Heaven

It’s hard to believe it’s been 11 months since my sister left this world and stepped into eternity. Some days it feels like just yesterday, and other days the weight of her absence feels heavier than I can explain.

She wasn’t just my sister—she was my best friend, my biggest cheerleader, the one who knew my heart without me saying a word. Life hasn’t been the same without her laugh, her love, her presence. I still find myself reaching for the phone to call her or thinking, “I can’t wait to tell her this.” Then reality hits.

Grief is a strange, winding road. There are days filled with memories that make me smile, and others that bring tears out of nowhere. But through it all, I carry her in everything I do. Her love, her strength, and her faith still guide me.

Heaven gained such a beautiful soul 11 months ago. And while I miss her more than words can say, I know she’s at peace, watching over us, probably laughing and shaking her head at some of the things we do.

I’ll love you always, sis. Until we meet again. 💔🕊️

How To Make Sure You Take Care of Yourself

It’s strange, a lot of people seem to think that it’s inherently selfish to take care of themselves. However, if you can’t look after yourself, you won’t be able to care for those you love. Whether you’re a parent, a spouse, a child responsible for older parents, or just someone who is feeling burned out by the world around you, you need to take care of yourself.

This is what’s known as “self care”. But how can you take that concept and apply it to your life?

Image Credit.

Get Help When You Need It

One of the best things you can do is to realize that life isn’t a solo challenge. We’re all going through the same things, so there’s nothing wrong with reaching out and asking for a bit of support. Here are a few suggestions for how you can do this.

First, you can hire help. People seem to forget that this is an option, but you can hire a cleaner like the Seattle Green Cleaning Fairy to do a deep cleaning job or just help you to keep on top of the weekly chores. This means you have more time and more energy in the day.

You can also talk to your friends and family about what you need. A listening ear can be so helpful, as well as a night out or a nice walk to just take your mind off life. Otherwise, they might be able to help you more practically, but be sure to reciprocate when they need it.

In some cases, you may need professional healthcare help. This might be physical support or it could mean counselling or therapy to help you deal with emotional problems or mental health disorders.

Find Fulfilling Hobbies

Hobbies seem like an indulgence, but they’re actually very important for maintaining your mental and physical health. Hobbies help you to be more creative, active, or just to have fun and relax. Losing interest in your hobbies is one of the first signs of depression or anxiety.

If you find that your hobbies aren’t fulfilling, don’t be afraid to look for new things to do. You don’t have to be really skilled at a hobby to have fun. You can join different groups and clubs and meet new people, and you never know what you might end up enjoying.

Get Proper Sleep

One of the most common issues that people have is sleep deprivation. Insomnia and other sleep disorders can have a hugely negative effect on your health and happiness. You might struggle to concentrate on tasks or you might just feel grumpier and more irritable. 

If you’re burned out, these problems can compound, as you find it even harder to sleep. Because burnout is basically exhaustion, sleep is so important for recovery.

In this case, you need to try to improve your sleep hygiene. Find things that calm you down before bed so you aren’t kept up by stress and can actually get some shut-eye and recover more quickly.